Erling Haaland could have played for England plus five other big snubs

England train in Qatar

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England have boasted many a superstar down the years, although that hasn’t quite translated into success in major tournaments. That said, The Three Lions’ alumni could’ve been even more star-studded if Erling Haaland and five other names didn’t snub the country they were eligible to represent.

Haaland, a Norway international who rose to prominence in the same nation, could’ve been leading the England line alongside Harry Kane in an alternate reality. The 22-year-old was born in the West Yorkshire city of Leeds and is understood to be a big Leeds United supporter.

Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge, was playing for the Whites when he arrived on the planet (not via UFO), but he opted to represent Norway. Given the Scandanavians haven’t qualified for a major tournament since Euro 2020, the prolific striker may come to regret that decision.

Express Sport explores five more highly rated stars who turned down the chance to play for England.

Jamal Musiala – Germany

Born in Stuttgart but raised in London, speculation over Jamal Musiala’s international allegiance was rife after he established himself as one of Europe’s hottest youngsters at Bayern Munich in the 2020/21 season.

The 19-year-old attacker admitted it was a difficult decision but chose Germany for a clearer pathway to a regular starting berth. At England’s expense, that decision paid off as he looks set to be one of the nation’s star men at the World Cup.

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Wilfried Zaha – Ivory Coast

Wilfried Zaha earned two England caps in 2012 and 2013, but his opportunities thinned as England’s attacking options grew. Despite pleas from Gareth Southgate, the Crystal Palace icon switched allegiances to his birthplace, the Ivory Coast.

Adnan Januzaj – Belgium

After bursting onto the scene at Manchester United under David Moyes, Adnan Januzaj wasn’t short of choices for which international side to represent. The winger opted for the latter out of England, Kosovo, Albania and Belgium, despite hopes that a potential spot in the 2014 World Cup squad could’ve persuaded him to play for the Three Lions.

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  • 100% polyester.
  • Machine Washable.
  • Free UK delivery available with code ENGWEMBLEY.
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From £59.95 View Deal

  • From the official England merchandise store and modelled on what the team wears for on the pitch for away games
  • Nike Dri-FIT technology is sweat-wicking to stay dry and comfortable.
  • Kids sizes ranging XS – XL.
  • 100% polyester.
  • Machine Washable.
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Louis Saha – France

Sven Goran-Eriksson tried his luck by trying to lure Louis Saha into his England squad for Euro 2004. However, the Everton and United striker, born in Paris, held out for France and earned 20 caps for Les Bleus, featuring at the tournament Eriksson wanted him to don the white of England.

Ryan Giggs – Wales

Oh, how different things could’ve been if Ryan Giggs solved England’s left-wing dilemma… and it nearly happened. The Old Trafford legend represented England at U16 level after going to school in Salford. However, the Cardiff-born star debuted for Wales in 1991, citing his birthplace and parents as the reason for snubbing the Three Lions.

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